Gatso Speed Camera
The most common fixed speed camera in the UK, named after inventor Maurice Gatsonides.
Manufacturer
Sensys Gatso Group (Netherlands)
Detection Method
Doppler radar + rear photograph
Flash
Yes (rear flash)
Speed Tolerance
NPCC guideline: speed limit + 10% + 2mph (e.g., 35 mph in a 30 zone)
How Gatso Cameras Work
Uses Doppler radar to measure vehicle speed. When triggered, takes a rear-facing photograph with a bright flash. White road markings help verify speed by measuring distance travelled between marks.
Key Facts
Does It Flash?
Yes (rear flash)
Typical Locations
Urban A-roads, residential areas near schools, accident blackspots
Count in UK
1,240
Detection Method
Doppler radar + rear photograph
How to Identify a Gatso
- Yellow box-shaped housing
- Mounted on post facing AWAY from traffic
- White painted lines on road surface
- Visible flash unit on rear
Where to Find Gatso Cameras
Gatso cameras are most commonly found in the following areas:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Gatso cameras flash?
Yes, Gatso cameras produce a bright rear-facing flash when triggered.
How accurate are Gatso speed cameras?
Gatso cameras are type-approved by the Home Office and are highly accurate. The NPCC guideline allows a tolerance of the speed limit + 10% + 2 mph before prosecution. NPCC guideline: speed limit + 10% + 2mph (e.g., 35 mph in a 30 zone)
How do Gatso cameras detect speed?
Uses Doppler radar to measure vehicle speed. When triggered, takes a rear-facing photograph with a bright flash. White road markings help verify speed by measuring distance travelled between marks.
Where are Gatso cameras typically found?
Urban A-roads, residential areas near schools, accident blackspots
Other Camera Types
Truvelo
A forward-facing fixed speed camera that photographs the driver. Unlike Gatso, it uses infrared flash invisible to drivers.
485 in the UK
SPECS (Average Speed)
Average speed camera system using ANPR to calculate speed over a distance. Cannot be beaten by braking at camera locations.
620 in the UK
HADECS3
Highway Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System. Used on smart motorways to enforce variable speed limits.
310 in the UK